Everything You Need To Know About WBBL

It's not just cricket- it's Big Bash! And it's seriously hot right now. Here's why the Women's Big Bash League will be creating buzz this Summer
- byAlice Ellis

04 Jan
2018

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You’ve probably heard the term. But what does it actually mean? Glad you asked! WBBL stands for the Women’s Big Bash League. While traditional cricket formats – test matches and one-dayers – are loooong, Big Bash cricket takes the quicker T20 format. Think cricket, on steroids! “It’s exciting and non-stop action,” says Dominic Remond, general manager of the Sydney Sixers Big Bash women’s and men’s teams. The aim? Batters have to try to get as many runs as possible in a short time – within up to 20 overs (120 bowls of the ball). Each game lasts about two and a half hours, so each time the other team bowls, batters have to really whack it. They’re pretty much trying to hit sixes and fours (hitting it to – or over – the boundary) every time, rather than along the ground, like in longer-form, more risk-averse cricket. In other words, Big Bash is a less- serious form of cricket that’s more exciting for non-fanatics. “The games are all about big hits, innovative bowling and energetic fielding on the oval, and a great family entertainment experience in the crowd,” Remond explains.

Where to watch the action

Season three hits off on December 9 and continues until the final on February 4, 2018. All games – except those played as double- headers with the men’s games – will be free so get down to a match (check out the schedule at bigbash.com.au/fixtures). Also, 12 games will be broadcast live on Ten, with all the other games live-streamed on cricket.com.au in HD.

How to strap on those pads

Keen? “T20 cricket is the perfect introductory format,” says Remond. “There are several entry points depending on your age and region; check out playcricket.com.au for options in your area.”Don’t mind if we do!